Go through these in order and stop at the first one that applies. If you are reading this for someone else, answer for them.
1
Is any of this happening now?
Call 911
Seek emergency care for difficulty breathing or swallowing, swelling that is spreading toward the eye or neck, severe facial swelling, or signs of serious illness.
These symptoms may indicate a spreading infection rather than uncomplicated plaque or tartar.
Other emergency signs, for anyone
Someone who is struggling to breathe, gasping, choking, or cannot get words out
Someone who has chest pain, tightness or pressure lasting more than a few minutes
Someone who has sudden weakness or drooping on one side of the face or body, slurred speech, or sudden confusion
Someone who is unconscious, or cannot be woken
Someone who is bleeding heavily and it will not stop with firm pressure
Someone who has had a seizure that will not stop, or does not wake up afterwards
Someone who has lips or skin that look pale, blue, grey or blotchy
Someone who you believe has taken an overdose or swallowed something poisonous
2
Is any of this happening?
Be seen today
Ask for a prompt dental assessment if you develop:
Increasing tooth or gum pain
A lump, pus, or a bad-tasting discharge near a tooth
New facial or jaw swelling
Fever with dental pain or swelling
A loose adult tooth or rapidly worsening gum symptoms
3
Does any of this apply?
Book an appointment
Arrange a routine dental appointment if you have tartar that does not brush away, frequent gum bleeding, persistent bad breath, gum recession, or difficulty cleaning around dental work.
Also seek routine assessment if a tooth becomes sensitive or painful, even if you think tartar is the cause.
Every sign above is quoted from the sofidex article on Plaque and tartar on teeth. If you are not sure, err upward — it is always reasonable to be checked.